In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer - IceCap 18 Watt

In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer - IceCap

18 Watt
$245.70
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In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer - IceCap 18 Watt

In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer - IceCap

UPC: 6974415981992

$245.70
Wattage
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Description
The IceCap In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer is a drop-in sump unit designed to control free-floating algae, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and protozoa in saltwater, freshwater, and pond systems without the use of chemicals. Available in 18W, 27W, and 40W configurations, each model ships complete with a properly sized feed pump, mounting brackets, and molded hose barb fittings for 1/2", 3/4", or 1" flexible hose. The in-sump placement eliminates complicated inline plumbing while keeping the sterilizer accessible for lamp changes. UV exposure targets only free-floating microorganisms in the water column, leaving beneficial bacteria on filter media and substrate unaffected. A 10,000-hour lamp life rating applies across all three models.

UV sterilization works by exposing free-floating microorganisms to germicidal ultraviolet light as water passes through the sterilizer body, disrupting their DNA and rendering them unable to reproduce. The IceCap In-Sump UV Sterilizer brings this capability directly into the sump, where water is already moving through the filtration loop. The result is reduced pathogen load in the water column, improved water clarity, better redox balance, and less strain on the immune systems of fish and corals—without introducing any chemical treatments.

All three wattage options ship as complete plug-and-play systems. The 18W model pairs with a DC-700 pump and is rated for saltwater systems up to 60 gallons or freshwater up to 600 gallons, making it a practical choice for smaller all-in-one setups. The 27W steps up to an EVO 1000 pump with ratings of 140 gallons saltwater and 1,300 gallons freshwater. The 40W uses an EVO 2000 pump and extends coverage to 400 gallons saltwater or 3,000 gallons freshwater. Included hose barb fittings accommodate 1/2", 3/4", and 1" flexible hose, and secure mounting brackets hold the unit in place within the sump without requiring any penetrations or permanent plumbing.

Because UV light only affects microorganisms passing through the sterilizer chamber, it does not disturb the nitrifying bacteria colonizing your live rock, filter media, or substrate. This makes it straightforward to run continuously alongside an established biological filter. Lamp life is rated at 10,000 hours across all models; because UV output degrades before a lamp visibly fails, replacing the lamp on a scheduled basis—typically every 12 months—keeps sterilization effective.

For hobbyists with space in the sump and a preference for minimal external plumbing, this unit fits cleanly into the existing filtration footprint. Those needing higher wattage or a longer dwell time for larger systems may want to compare external inline options such as the Aqua Ultraviolet 57W Classic. Within the IceCap line, the 18W suits smaller reef or freshwater tanks, while the 40W is appropriate for larger mixed reef or fish-only systems where pathogen pressure is a regular concern.

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Overview

Clarify. Sterilize. Simplify.

Three wattage options, one straightforward installation—drop-in UV sterilization designed to fit inside any sump with minimal plumbing.

  • Broad-Spectrum Pathogen Control

    • Targets free-floating algae, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and protozoa
    • Works without chemical additives or treatments
    • Does not affect beneficial bacteria on filter media or substrate
  • Complete Plug-and-Play System

    • Each model includes a properly sized feed pump (DC-700, EVO 1000, or EVO 2000)
    • Mounting brackets and molded hose barb fittings (1/2", 3/4", 1") included
    • No inline plumbing required — mounts directly inside the sump
  • Three Models for Different Tank Sizes

    • 18W: up to 60 gallons saltwater / 600 gallons freshwater
    • 27W: up to 140 gallons saltwater / 1,300 gallons freshwater
    • 40W: up to 400 gallons saltwater / 3,000 gallons freshwater

Inside the In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer - IceCap

IceCap In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer Body
IceCap In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer Body

Drop-in sump UV sterilizer body with mounting brackets and hose barb fittings

  • Available in 18W, 27W, and 40W configurations
  • 18W dimensions: 3.5" x 3.5" x 18.4"
  • 27W dimensions: 4.6" x 4.3" x 22"
  • 40W dimensions: 5.4" x 5.1" x 24"
  • Includes secure mounting brackets and molded hose barb fittings for 1/2", 3/4", and 1" flexible hose
  • Lamp life rated at 10,000 hours across all models
UV Ballast - Germicidal Lamp Electronic Ballast RL5-800-35A
UV Ballast - Germicidal Lamp Electronic Ballast RL5-800-35A

High-output electronic ballast for consistent germicidal lamp performance

  • Germicidal lamp electronic ballast, model RL5-800-35A
  • Drives high-output UV lamp for reliable sterilization output
  • Designed for continuous-duty operation in sump environments

What's Included

  • IceCap In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer Body

    IceCap In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer Body

    Drop-in sump UV sterilizer body with mounting brackets and hose barb fittings

  • UV Ballast - Germicidal Lamp Electronic Ballast RL5-800-35A

    UV Ballast - Germicidal Lamp Electronic Ballast RL5-800-35A

    High-output electronic ballast for consistent germicidal lamp performance

Specifications

ICECAP IN-SUMP 18W UV STERILIZER

Wattage
18W
Saltwater Coverage
Up to 60 gallons
Freshwater Coverage
Up to 600 gallons
Dimensions
3.5" x 3.5" x 18.4"
Included Pump
DC-700
Lamp Life
10,000 hours
Hose Barb Fittings
1/2", 3/4", 1"

ICECAP IN-SUMP 27W UV STERILIZER

Wattage
27W
Saltwater Coverage
Up to 140 gallons
Freshwater Coverage
Up to 1,300 gallons
Dimensions
4.6" x 4.3" x 22"
Included Pump
EVO 1000
Lamp Life
10,000 hours
Hose Barb Fittings
1/2", 3/4", 1"

ICECAP IN-SUMP 40W UV STERILIZER

Wattage
40W
Saltwater Coverage
Up to 400 gallons
Freshwater Coverage
Up to 3,000 gallons
Dimensions
5.4" x 5.1" x 24"
Included Pump
EVO 2000
Lamp Life
10,000 hours
Hose Barb Fittings
1/2", 3/4", 1"

Expert buying guidance

In-Sump High Output UV Sterilizer FAQs

What size IceCap in-sump UV sterilizer do I need?

Size it to total system volume, including the sump. IceCap rates the 18W for marine systems up to 60 gallons, the 27W up to 140 gallons and the 40W up to 400 gallons, with much higher freshwater ratings. If your system sits near a model’s limit, or parasite control is the main goal, step up a size so the slower flow parasites need still covers your volume.

Will a UV sterilizer get rid of ich?

A UV sterilizer can reduce the free-swimming stage of ich and other parasites as they pass through the lamp, which helps limit spread in a display. It cannot reach parasites already attached to a fish, so it does not cure an outbreak. For parasite control IceCap recommends slower flow, around 0.5 to 1.5 times the system volume per hour, and UV works best alongside quarantine.

Can I use the IceCap in-sump UV in an all-in-one aquarium?

Yes. The 18W model is the size IceCap recommends for all-in-one aquariums. It measures 3.5 x 3.5 x 18.4 inches and ships with a DC-700 feed pump. Before ordering, confirm the rear chamber is wide enough for the unit and tall enough that the top stays above the water line, including when the return pump is off and the water level rises.

How often should I replace the UV bulb and quartz sleeve?

IceCap lamps are rated for 10,000 hours, and IceCap recommends replacing the lamp and quartz sleeve together about once a year. Output drops as the lamp ages and as mineral film clouds the sleeve, even while the lamp still lights. Faster algae growth on glass and rock is a common sign. Replacement bulbs and sleeves are sold in matching 18W, 27W and 40W sizes.

What comes with the IceCap in-sump UV sterilizer?

Each model ships with the UV unit, lamp, quartz sleeve, high-output ballast, mounting brackets, hose barb fittings for 1/2, 3/4 or 1 inch tubing, and a matched feed pump: a DC-700 on the 18W, an EVO 1000 on the 27W and an EVO 2000 on the 40W. The 27W and 40W also include a downpipe and output elbow. You only need a GFCI-protected outlet.

Is the IceCap in-sump UV sterilizer submersible?

No. It is designed to sit in the sump, but the electrical components must stay dry. Position it so the top of the unit remains above the water line even when the return pump is off and the sump fills. Mount the power supply away from water, never directly over the sump, and run the unit from a properly grounded GFCI-protected outlet.

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